The Best Hiking & Cycling Trails on WA’s Rottnest Island

A quick 90-minute ferry ride from Perth, or an even quicker 30-minute ferry ride from Fremantle, Rottnest Island is an an outdoor lover’s paradise. This protected nature reserve is home to more than 60 beaches, historic landmarks and sprawling native bushland (not to mention bountiful wildlife). 

The island is mostly car-free, making it the perfect destination for cycling and hiking. Whether you prefer a leisurely bike ride along the coast or a peaceful walk through bushland, Rottnest’s trails offer the perfect way to explore this beautiful island.

Scroll on to discover the best.

The best cycling trails on Rottnest Island

Rottnest Island’s cycling trails are perfect for all levels of cyclists. From short rides to more challenging routes, these trails offer an exciting way to explore the island.

The Rotto Mini Loop (4km, approx. 30 minutes)

For a short, easy ride, the Rotto Mini Loop is perfect. At just 4km, the loop takes you along the coast with beautiful views of the island’s beaches and waters. Start at Thomson Bay, where you can enjoy a swim, grab a bite at a local cafe, or simply take in the views. The highlight is Vlamingh Lookout, where you can enjoy sweeping views of the island before returning to the settlement.

Beaches, Lighthouses & Lakes (10km, approx. 1.5-3 hours)

For a longer ride, the Beaches, Lighthouses & Lakes trail is 10km, passing some of Rottnest’s most iconic landmarks, including Henrietta Rocks, Porpoise Bay, and Parker Point. After Salmon Bay, head inland toward Wadjemup Lighthouse. Climb the 38-metre staircase for panoramic views, and on a clear day, you can even see the Perth skyline.

This trail offers a moderate ride with stunning views and a chance to appreciate Rottnest’s natural beauty.

The Island Ride (22km, approx. 3-5 hours)

The Island Ride is the ultimate cycling challenge. At 22km, it takes you around the entire island, offering diverse landscapes and stunning views. The route passes iconic beaches, including those from the 10km ride, with plenty of chances to cool off.

As you reach the western end, the terrain becomes more rugged. Stop at Cathedral Rocks and Cape Vlamingh viewing platforms for marine life sightings, including fur seals, sea lions, and, if you’re lucky, dolphins or migrating humpback whales (August–December).

The return journey takes you through beautiful beaches, from Geordie Bay to Longreach Bay. The ride offers a true sense of accomplishment and breathtaking views, making it an unforgettable way to experience Rottnest.

The best walking trails on Rottnest Island

Rottnest is just as captivating on foot as it is on two wheels.

Its walking trails offer a chance to immerse yourself in the island’s diverse landscapes and discover its rich wildlife and history.

The Ngank Wen Bidi Trail (approx. 7.8km)

The Ngank Wen Bidi Trail takes you to Rottnest’s rugged West End. The 7.8km loop offers sweeping views of the Indian Ocean and passes secluded beaches. Along the way, you’ll walk through Marjorie Bay, a natural lagoon teeming with marine life, and stop at Cathedral Rocks for a chance to spot long-nosed fur seals.

The trail continues along the West End boardwalk to Cape Vlamingh, where you can spot osprey nests and, from late August to December, migrating humpback whales. As the trail loops back, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the southern coastline.

The Karlinyah Bidi Trail (approx. 5.7km)

The Karlinyah Bidi Trail is a shorter 5.7km loop, with some of the most rugged terrain on the island (for those with some hiking experience). This trail takes you through lush vegetation and along the coastline, offering plenty of opportunities to spot quokkas and enjoy Rottnest’s natural beauty. Starting at Little Parakeet Bay, expect stunning views over the salt lakes, and Catherine, City of York and Stark Bays, before wrapping up at Narrow Neck.

Ngank Yira Bidi (approx. 10km)

History lovers can discover more about the island’s military background on this one-way trail, which incorporates the naval gun battery remnants at Oliver Hill and Bickley Bay, plus the Shark shipwreck at Henrietta Rocks. It’s also perfect for those who want to experience more of the island’s ecosystems while enjoying scenic views and wildlife sightings: the birdwatching at Serpentine Lake is particularly notable.

Wardan Nara Bidi (approx. 9.8km)

Winding along the southern coast, the one-way Wardan Nara Bidi Trail offers stunning panoramic views of the island’s rugged bays. Starting at Porpoise Bay, the trail leads uphill to Parker Point for a 180° view of the southern coastline. The trail then passes Salmon Bay, Oliver Hill gun battery, and Wadjemup Lighthouse.

For those interested in the island’s history, you can explore the tunnels at Oliver Hill. The trail ends at Narrow Neck, where you can appreciate views and encounter the Mammong Dreaming sculpture, created by Noongar artist Peter Farmer. An audio sign lets you hear the story behind the sculpture, as shared by Traditional Owner Kerri Anne Winmar.

Gabbi Karniny Bidi (approx. 9.5km)

Want to see a side of Wadjemup that many don’t see? The Gabbi Karniny Bidi is a 9.5km loop that takes you through hills, bushland, and salt lakes.

The trail offers stunning views as you pass Garden Lake, Herschel Lake, and Lake Baghdad. One of the highlights is the Lake Vincent boardwalk, where you’ll feel like you’re walking on water. The trail finishes at the striking Pink Lake, a perfect spot to end your hike.

What makes this trail so special is how it changes with the time of day. On summer afternoons, you’ll be able to catch a magical sunset over the salt lakes, while in winter, the lush greens of the bushland contrast against the blue skies.

Top tips for exploring

This essential information will ensure you discover Rottnest’s beauty safely and respectfully.

Stay sun safe

Start your adventure early to beat the midday sun, there is not much shade on the island. Don’t forget to apply (and re-apply) plenty of sunscreen, and always wear a hat and protective clothing.

Always carry a minimum of two litres of water per person (or three litres in hot weather), as once outside the main settlement, access to drinking water is limited. Refill stations are available at Thomson Bay settlement, Army Jetty, Kingstown Barracks, The Basin, Vlamingh Lookout, and Geordie Bay.

Plan ahead (and take a map)

If you’re planning to bike on Rottnest Island, you can take your own via the ferry, or hire them, either from the ferry operator or Pedal & Flipper Hire on the island itself.

Be sure to take a map so you can stay on track. Rottnest is mostly car-free, but there is a train running on the island, so be mindful of railway crossings and always stay off the tracks when cycling or walking.

Respect Country and tread gently

The island, called Wadjemup in the Noongar language, holds deep cultural and spiritual significance for the Whadjuk Noongar people. Wadjemup, which translates to “place across the water where the spirits are,” beautifully captures the island’s profound spiritual significance.

Wadjemup is a protected nature reserve and sanctuary for unique wildlife. In fact, it’s home to species that can’t be found anywhere else in the world. To help preserve its beauty, remember to tread gently.

Stick to the marked paths, respect the flora and fauna, and give the wildlife their space. It is also important to be mindful of other visitors as you explore. Your care ensures that Rottnest stays as pristine and welcoming for everyone who comes after you.

Hero image: Laura the Explorer Bike Tours. Source: Rottnest Island Authority.